Clinical Efficacy of Tooth-Bone Graft: A Systematic Review and Risk of Bias Analysis of Randomized Control Trials and Observational Studies

Utilizing partially demineralized dentin plate for horizontal ridge augmentation: A case report

BACKGROUND

This article intends to showcase a case of guided bone regeneration (GBR) utilizing a partially demineralized dentin plate processed from an extracted second molar for horizontal augmentation of the posterior ridge for implant placement.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A 60-year-old patient presented with horizontal ridge deficiency at site #30 and an endodontically treated tooth #31 with recurrent decay. A treatment plan was proposed to extract tooth #31 and utilize a dentin graft from the tooth for ridge augmentation at site #30. Following the atraumatic extraction of tooth #31, it was sectioned into a 1 mm thick dentin plate, sterilized, and processed to obtain a demineralized dentin graft. Following a mid-crestal incision and full-thickness flap elevation, the dentin plate was adapted on the buccal defect of site #30 with 10 mm fixation screws, and the gap between the plate and the buccal bone was filled with 0.5 cc of 50/50 cortico-cancellous bone allograft hydrated with saline, covered with collagen membrane followed by primary closure. At 6 months, a postoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was obtained to evaluate the ridge width revealing sufficient ridge width for optimal implant placement. The radio-opaque dentin plate was visible on the CBCT depicting integration with the alveolar ridge. Following surgical implant preparation protocol, a 4 mm diameter and 8.5 mm length implant was placed in a restoratively driven position.

CONCLUSION

This case reports favorable outcomes for GBR using a partially demineralized dentin plate as an alternative to an autogenous bone block graft for horizontal ridge augmentation for future implant placement.

KEY POINTS

This case introduces a novel method utilizing partially demineralized dentin plates derived from extracted teeth for guided bone regeneration, showcasing its potential efficacy in addressing ridge deficiencies. Success, in this case, relies on meticulous sectioning of the tooth and processing of the dentin graft, precise adaptation and fixation of the graft to the residual ridge, and achieving primary closure for undisturbed healing. Limitations to success include the availability of teeth for extraction coinciding with the need for ridge augmentation and unstable graft fixation.

Autologous and Heterologous Minor and Major Bone Regeneration with Platelet-Derived Growth Factors

AIM

This review aims to explore the clinical applications, biological mechanisms, and potential benefits of concentrated growth factors (CGFs), autologous materials, and xenografts in bone regeneration, particularly in dental treatments such as alveolar ridge preservation, mandibular osteonecrosis, and peri-implantitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, with keywords such as "bone regeneration" and "CGF" from 2014 to 2024. Only English-language clinical studies involving human subjects were included. A total of 10 studies were selected for qualitative analysis. Data were processed through multiple stages, including title and abstract screening and full-text evaluation.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the reviewed studies underscore the potential of the CGF in enhancing bone regeneration through stimulating cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix mineralization. Autologous materials have also demonstrated promising results due to their biocompatibility and capacity for seamless integration with natural bone tissue. When combined with xenografts, these materials show synergistic effects in improving bone quantity and quality, which are crucial for dental implant success. Future research should focus on direct comparisons of different techniques, the optimization of protocols, and broader applications beyond dental medicine. The integration of CGFs and autologous materials into routine clinical practice represents a significant advancement in regenerative dental medicine, with the potential for improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Repairing alveolar bone defect using demineralized dentin grafts: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

The alveolar bone defect often was hardly healed naturally by the body's repair mechanism. Implant placement was the most favored option for replacing a missing tooth in the current times, and the preservation of alveolar bone was vital. Tooth components, especially dentin, were very similar to alveolar bone components and could be used for promoting the alveolar bone regeneration process in reconstructive dentistry.

METHODS

We exhaustively scoured multiple literature databases, such as PubMed and Embase, from inception to September 2024. The protocol for this meta-analysis was officially registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023400591). Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that reported alveolar bone preservation through demineralized dentin grafts were chosen from the studies. We extracted both qualitative and quantitative data and evaluated statistical heterogeneity using the I2 test. The potential for publication bias was evaluated using both qualitative and quantitative methods. A visual evaluation of the funnel plot was used for the qualitative assessment, with the Begg's test and the Egger's test were used for quantitative analysis.

RESULTS

Ultimately, 7 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 230 participants who were adults without systemic diseases and free from caries or peri-apical infections. Compared with the control group, the demineralized dentin matrix (DDM) group was not statistically significant for improving radiographic ridge width change (SMD - 0.09, 95% CI -0.39 to 0.22) and ISQ values (SMD 0.06, 95% CI -2.39 to 2.51). These results indicate that DDM performs comparably to the control, suggesting that it can be considered an effective alternative in achieving similar outcomes in these specific measures.

CONCLUSIONS

The DDM grafts appear to be a feasible alternative to other biomaterials used for alveolar bone preservation.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

Not applicable. This study is a meta-analysis and does not involve a clinical trial. Therefore, no clinical trial number has been assigned.

How effective is dentin autograft for socket preservation and implant site preparation: A systematic review protocol

Background

Socket preservation is a surgical procedure aimed at preserving the dimensions of the alveolar bone following tooth extraction. It is performed by filling the extraction socket with bone graft material with or without a barrier membrane. Recently, dentine obtained from extracted teeth has been tried as an autograft for socket preservation. Studies have compared the use of dentin to other bone grafts, however, systematic reviews evaluating the efficacy of dentin for socket preservation are limited. Hence, this systematic review protocol is proposed to generate evidence on the efficacy of dentin as a viable alternative to other bone graft materials for socket preservation.

Methods

This systematic review protocol was prepared according to the Methodological Expectations of the Cochrane Intervention Reviews (MECIR) guidelines. It will be conducted using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Review of Interventions. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, Epistemonikos, Cochrane Central, and EBSCO databases and clinical trial registries, will be searched for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies that have used autologous dentin graft (either in particulate/putty, or/matrix form) for socket preservation. The radiographic and clinical assessment of bone and soft tissue healing of the preserved sockets along with patient-related outcomes following surgery will be assessed. The risk of bias assessment of the RCTs and Non-RCTs will be assessed using the 'Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool (ROB II) and ROBINS-I respectively. The certainty of evidence will be assessed by the GRADE approach.

Discussion

This evidence is important for dental clinicians and the public to make an informed decision when choosing graft material for socket preservation. The extracted teeth are considered biological waste; however, this evidence provides scope for using a less invasive autograft for bone regenerative procedures.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO: CRD42021201958 (Registered on 15/02/2021).

Tooth Graft: An Umbrella Overview

This umbrella review aims to evaluate systematic/meta-analysis studies containing clinical evidence on tooth grafts as bone substitutes in the oral and maxillofacial regions. Using language restrictions and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, an electronic database search of PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar was conducted, featuring published studies up until August 2022. All systematic/meta-analysis review articles relating to tooth graft materials were matched against the inclusion criteria. Two qualified researchers independently assessed the studies' inclusion or exclusion criteria and risk of bias, and a third investigator assisted in resolving ambiguities. A total of 81 systematic/meta-analysis studies, comprising 21 animal-controlled trials, 23 randomized controlled human trials, 23 prospective studies, and 14 retrospective studies, were selected for this study. A small risk of bias was observed in systematic studies/meta-analyses. In addition, the clinical evidence from the analysis of these studies revealed a low incidence of side effects. According to the current review, two systematic reviews indicated that autogenous bone grafting of prepared teeth might be as effective as other bone grafting materials. Four studies also mentioned autologous grafts as potential alternatives to autologous grafts, autogenous demineralized dentin (ADDM), engineered grafts, root blocks, and dental matrix. On the other hand, three systematic studies stated that more long-term research is needed to confirm their findings. Finally, given the importance of standardization and homogeneity of studies for clinical cases, it is advised to be used cautiously due to the risks of transplant rejection.

Socket Preservation Using Dentin Mixed with Xenograft Materials: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

The use of human dentin matrix could serve as an alternative to autologous, allogenic, and xenogeneic bone grafts due to its osteoinductive characteristics. The limitations of its use is tooth availability and that it is often necessary to mix it with a biomaterial.

AIM

The aim of this study was to analyze a mix of two different graft materials with different reabsorption ranges when the dentin graft material was not sufficient for full socket preservation.

METHODS

Seven socket preservation surgeries were carried out employing a mixed graft material containing 50% dentin and 50% xenograft. After four months of recovery, the implants were positioned. At the time of the prosthesis placement and implant surgery, bone samples were collected.

RESULTS

The histologic analysis revealed no inflammatory or infective reaction against the seven biopsies. The histomorphometric graft analysis revealed an amount of New Bone of 29.03 ± 6.57% after 4 months and 34.11 ± 5.02% after 8 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The two graft materials had a different volume reabsorption rate: 71% after 4 months and 90% after 8 months for dentin, and 6% after 4 months and 26% after 8 months for the xenograft. The space created by the dentin reabsorption increased the quantity of new bone.

The Use of Human Sterilized Crushed Tooth Particles Compared with BTCP Biomaterial and Empty Defects in Bone Formation inside Critical Rabbit Calvaria Sites

This study aimed to assess the bone regeneration of critical-size defects in rabbit calvaria filled with freshly crushed extracted teeth, comparing them with BTCP biomaterial and empty sites. Materials and methods: Twenty-one female New Zealand rabbits were used in this study. Two critical-size defects 6 mm in size were created in the skull bone, each with a 3 mm separation between them. Three experimental groups were evaluated: Group A (human sterilized crushed teeth granules alone), Group B (Bioner Bone, Bioner Sitemas Implantológicos), and Group C (unfilled defects). The animals were sacrificed at 4 and 8 weeks. Evaluation of the samples involved histological and histomorphometric analyses with radiographic evaluation. The histological evaluation showed a higher volume reduction in Group A compared with Group B (p < 0.05) and Control. Group A showed the highest values for cortical closure and bone formation around the particles, followed by Group B and Group C (p < 0.05). Within the limitations of this animal study, we can conclude that the use of human tooth particles leads to increased bone formation and reduced connective tissue in critical-size defects in rabbit calvaria when compared to BTCP biomaterial. The calvarial model is a robust base for the evaluation of different biomaterials.

Autogenous dentin combined with mesenchymal stromal cells as an alternative alveolar bone graft: an in vivo study

OBJECTIVE

Considering the chemical and structural properties of dentin, this study was aimed at evaluating the effect of dentin matrix alone or combined with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) on postextraction alveolar bone regeneration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Wistar rats were subjected to tooth extraction with osteotomy and allocated into groups according to the graft inserted: (1) Gelita-Spon^®, (2) Bio-Oss^®, (3) Dentin, (4) MSC, (5) Dentin/MSC, and (6) Control. Maxillae were analyzed by means of hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Serum levels of calcium and phosphorus were quantified.

RESULTS

The Bio-Oss group showed less bone than Gelita-Spon and Dentin/MSC; no other significant differences were seen in H&E analysis. The Bio-Oss group showed higher expression of collagen type I compared to the Dentin and Dentin/MSC groups and also higher osteocalcin expression than the Dentin/MSC group. There was a tendency of higher expression of osteopontin in the MSC, Dentin, and Dentin/MSC groups and higher VEGF in the MSC group. On micro-CT analysis, the Bio-Oss and the Dentin/MSC groups exhibited greater bone volume than the Control. Serum calcium and phosphorus levels did not significantly differ between the groups. SEM analysis depicted particles of Bio-Oss and dentin in the respective groups, as well as significant cellularity in the MSC group.

CONCLUSION

Autogenous nondemineralized dentin is an alternative for alveolar bone grafting, which can be improved by combination with MSC.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This work provides support for the clinical applicability of dentin graft alone or combined with MSC.

Autogenous Dentin Particulate Graft for Alveolar Ridge Augmentation with and without Use of Collagen Membrane: Preliminary Histological Analysis on Humans

(1) Background: The phenomenon of ankylosis of the dental elements has led clinicians to think that properly treated dentin and cement may be a potential graft for alveolar ridge augmentation. Currently, there are no studies in the literature able to histomorphometrically compare the healing patterns of an autogenous dentin particulate graft with the association, or not, of resorbable membranes. The aim of this pilot study is to histologically compare bone after an alveolar ridge augmentation using an autogenous dentin particulate graft with and without a resorbable collagen membrane. (2) Methods: this clinical trial enrolled six patients with defects requiring bone augmentation. Two procedures were performed in all six adult human patients in order to perform a study-control study: in Group 1, a ridge augmentation procedure with an autogenous dentin particulate graft and a resorbable collagen membrane was performed, and, in Group 2, an alveolar ridge preservation without a membrane was performed at the same time (T0). At 4 months, a biopsy of the bone tissues was performed using a 4 mm trephine bur in order to perform a histomorphometric analysis. (3) Results: The histomorphometric analysis demonstrated that Group 1 presented 45% of bone volume, 38% of vital bone, and 7% of residual graft. On the contrary, membrane-free regenerative procedures demonstrated 37% of bone volume, 9% of vital bone, and 27% of non-resorbed graft. In all cases, the regenerated bone allowed the insertion of implants with a standard platform, and no early failures were recorded. (4) Conclusions: Autogenous dentin particulate grafts seem to work best when paired with a membrane.

Autogenous Tooth Bone Grafts for Repair and Regeneration of Maxillofacial Defects: A Narrative Review

Autogenous tooth graft is an innovative and ingenious technique that employs a stepwise approach and utilizes human teeth as an autogenous source of bone graft. The structure of teeth closely resembles bone, both physically and biochemically, and can be efficiently used for the process as it depicts properties of osteoinduction and osteoconduction. Autogenous tooth bone has characteristics similar to bone grafts in terms of healing potential, physical properties, and clinical outcome. Autogenous tooth graft has shown reasonable promise as a graft material for the regeneration of maxillary and mandibular defects. Autogenous tooth bone graft finds its principal application in sinus and ridge augmentations and for socket preservation before implant placement. Additionally, it can be used successfully for alveolar cleft patients and patients with limited periodontal defects. The overall complication rates reported for autogenous tooth grafts are comparable to other graft sources. However, although long-term results are still underway, it is still recommended as a grafting option for limited defects in the cranio-facial region.

Innovative Concepts and Recent Breakthrough for Engineered Graft and Constructs for Bone Regeneration: A Literature Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

For decades, regenerative medicine and dentistry have been improved with new therapies and innovative clinical protocols. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate through a critical review the recent innovations in the field of bone regeneration with a focus on the healing potentials and clinical protocols of bone substitutes combined with engineered constructs, growth factors and photobiomodulation applications.

METHODS

A Boolean systematic search was conducted by PubMed/Medline, PubMed/Central, Web of Science and Google scholar databases according to the PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

After the initial screening, a total of 304 papers were considered eligible for the qualitative synthesis. The articles included were categorized according to the main topics: alloplastic bone substitutes, autologous teeth derived substitutes, xenografts, platelet-derived concentrates, laser therapy, microbiota and bone metabolism and mesenchymal cells construct.

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness of the present investigation showed that the use of biocompatible and bio-resorbable bone substitutes are related to the high-predictability of the bone regeneration protocols, while the oral microbiota and systemic health of the patient produce a clinical advantage for the long-term success of the regeneration procedures and implant-supported restorations. The use of growth factors is able to reduce the co-morbidity of the regenerative procedure ameliorating the post-operative healing phase. The LLLT is an adjuvant protocol to improve the soft and hard tissues response for bone regeneration treatment protocols.

Alveolar ridge preservation using autogenous whole-tooth versus demineralized dentin grafts: A randomized controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the radiographic changes and histologic healing following alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) using autogenous whole tooth (AWTG), test group, versus autogenous demineralized dentin graft (ADDG), control group.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty non-molar teeth indicated for extraction were randomized into two groups (n = 10/group). Extracted teeth were prepared into AWTG or ADDG (0.6N HCl; 30 min), inserted into extraction sockets and covered by collagen membranes. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans at baseline and six months were compared to assess ridge-dimensional changes. At six months, bone biopsies of engrafted sites were harvested and analyzed histomorphometrically.

RESULTS

All sites healed uneventfully. Reduction was 0.85 ± 0.38 mm and 1.02 ± 0.45 mm in ridge width, 0.61 ± 0.20 mm and 0.72 ± 0.27 mm in buccal and 0.66 ± 0.31 mm and 0.56 ± 0.24 mm in lingual ridge height for the AWTG and ADDG group, respectively (p > .05). Histologically, no inflammatory reactions were noticeable and all samples showed new bone formation. Qualitatively, graft-bone amalgamations were more pronounced in ADDG samples. Histomorphometrically, new bone, graft remnants and soft tissue occupied 37.55% ± 8.94%, 17.05% ± 5.58% and 45.4% ± 4.06% of the areas in the AWTG group and 48.4% ± 11.56%, 11.45% ± 4.13% and 40.15% ± 7.73% in the ADDG group of the examined areas, respectively (p > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

AWTG and ADDG are similarly effective in ARP. Yet, histologically ADDG seems to demonstrate better graft remodeling, integration and osteoinductive properties.

The Use of Autogenous Teeth for Alveolar Ridge Preservation: A Literature Review

Alveolar ridge resorption is a natural consequence of teeth extraction, with unpleasant aesthetic and functional consequences that might compromise a future oral rehabilitation. To minimize the biological consequences of alveolar ridge resorption, several surgical procedures have been designed, the so-called alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) techniques. One important characteristic is the concomitant use of biomaterial in ARP. In the past decade, autogenous teeth as a bone graft material in post-extraction sockets have been proposed with very interesting outcomes, yet with different protocols of preparation. Here we summarize the available evidence on autogenous teeth as a biomaterial in ARP, its different protocols and future directions.

Preclinical and Clinical Applications of Biomaterials in the Enhancement of Wound Healing in Oral Surgery: An Overview of the Available Reviews

Oral surgery has undergone dramatic developments in recent years due to the use of biomaterials. The aim of the present review is to provide a general overview of the current biomaterials used in oral surgery and to comprehensively outline their impact on post-operative wound healing. A search in Medline was performed, including hand searching. Combinations of searching terms and several criteria were applied for study identification, selection, and inclusion. The literature was searched for reviews published up to July 2020. Reviews evaluating the clinical and histological effects of biomaterials on post-operative wound healing in oral surgical procedures were included. Review selection was performed by two independent reviewers. Disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer, and 41 reviews were included in the final selection. The selected papers covered a wide range of biomaterials such as stem cells, bone grafts, and growth factors. Bioengineering and biomaterials development represent one of the most promising perspectives for the future of oral surgery. In particular, stem cells and growth factors are polarizing the focus of this ever-evolving field, continuously improving standard surgical techniques, and granting access to new approaches.

Alveolar Socket Preservation with Different Autologous Graft Materials: Preliminary Results of a Multicenter Pilot Study in Human

BACKGROUND

The histological and histomorphometrical results were evaluated between vital whole and non-vital endodontically treated teeth used as autologous grafts in post-extractive socket preservation procedures.

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients (average age 51.79 ± 5.97 years) with post-extractive defects were enrolled in five dentistry centers. All patients were divided into two groups: with whole teeth (Group 1) and teeth with endodontical root canal therapy (Group 2). The extracted teeth were processed with the Tooth Transformer device to obtain a demineralized and granulated graft material used with a resorbable collagen membrane for socket preservation. After four months, 32 bone biopsies were obtained for histological, histomorphometric, and statistical analysis.

RESULTS

During the bone healing period, no infection signs were observed. Nineteen biopsies in group 1 and 13 biopsies in group 2 were detected. The histological analysis showed neither inflammatory nor infective reaction in both groups. Autologous grafts surrounded by new bone were observed in all samples and, at high magnification, partially resorbed dentin and enamel structures were detected. No gutta-percha or cement was identified. Small non-statistically significant differences between the groups, in total bone volume (BV), autologous graft residual, and vital bone percentage were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed that the TT Transformer grafts were capable of producing new vital bone in socket preservation procedures. The histomorphometric results showed no statistical differences comparing whole and endodontically treated teeth in bone regeneration. Further studies will be carried out in order to understand the advantages of the autologous graft materials obtained from the tooth compared with the current biomaterials in bone regeneration treatments.